Lake Arlington boaters can have their vessels inspected free of charge.

The Dive/Swift Water Rescue Team of the Arlington Fire Department in partnership with the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary will be on hand to inspect boats from 8 a.m. to Noon at Richard Simpson Park Boat Ramp at Lake Arlington on the following dates in 2013:

• March 23
• April 13
• May 4
• May 25
• June 15
• July 6
• July 27
• August 17
• September 7
• September 28

The inspection program is voluntary, and boats earning the official Coast Guard Vessel Safety Check sticker can apply to their insurance provider for a reduction in premiums.

"It's our seventh year to provide this community with a service designed to promote boater safety at Lake Arlington', said Captain Hofstrom of the Arlington Fire Department. "We want the people who use Lake Arlington to have a positive experience when they come here, and we want them to know we are looking out for their welfare.

If the vessel is in an unsafe condition, boaters run the risk of having these problems ruin theirs or others weekend. The Vessel Safety Check only takes about 10 minutes. We have an official Coast Guard Auxiliary Representative on site to certify the inspection and answer any questions boaters may have. We encourage boaters to take advantage of this free service'.

View the Boat Inspection Flyer for 2013